JOHN McGrath has revealed it was an emotional day when he was told his Burton Albion career would be coming to an end this summer.

The club captain made his final appearances for the Brewers in the League Two play-off semi-final first and second legs against Bradford City before being taken to one side by manager Gary Rowett last Monday.

And after six years with the club, McGrath is leaving with a heavy heart, despite understanding his boss’ decision.

Ironically, a suspension doled out to player of the year Bell in the penultimate game of the regular season allowed McGrath to end his Albion career on something of a high.

“Credit to Bell, he has come in and become player of the year.

“In a mini scenario, the same happened to me at the end of the season, as when Lee got injured, I came back in.

“And I’m so glad I got to play the final three games.

“To be trusted to be called on by the manager - I was chuffed to bits.

“I’m sad, but I would have been even more sad if I’d had to leave without giving it ago.

“I said to the manager a few weeks ago, I don’t want my career to fizzle out.”

McGrath, 33, appeared just six other times in the league for Albion this season, with a cruel injury picked up last campaign and a loan spell with York City curtailing his involvement.

In total, he played more than 250 games for the club to become a fans’ favourite, and his central midfield partnership with Michael Simpson was outstanding at non-league level, proving key to promotion to the Football League.

Many moments stand out for the man who was named skipper following the depature of club legend Darren Stride.

He said: “I’ve got so many memories - scoring on my debut, winning the Conference and being made captain.